Our Philosophy on Complex Reconstruction
At AR Plastic Surgery, complex reconstruction is offered to patients who require advanced surgical techniques to close and rebuild larger or deeper wounds, particularly in areas of the body where function and appearance are closely linked. These procedures are often needed when simpler approaches, such as direct closure or skin grafting, are not suitable due to the size, location, or depth of the defect. Our approach focuses on achieving stable coverage while maintaining movement, sensation, and the natural contours of areas such as the nose, eyelids, lips, and ears.
Techniques such as forehead flaps, nasolabial flaps, and staged procedures are used to transfer healthy tissue with a reliable blood supply to areas where local skin is tight or damaged. These methods are commonly used following the removal of skin cancers, traumatic injuries, or revision of previous surgeries. The surgeons who operate at AR Plastic Surgery evaluate each case individually, considering the shape, depth, and position of the wound to design a reconstruction plan that supports both healing and everyday function.
Patients are actively involved in the planning process, with clear discussions about the procedure, recovery, and any stages involved. Each step of reconstruction is explained so patients know what to expect, including how the tissue will heal and when further procedures, such as flap division or adjustments, may be required. Our team offers support throughout the entire process, from the first consultation through to the final stages of care, to help patients feel informed and prepared.
Understanding Complex Reconstruction Techniques
Complex reconstruction is needed when a wound affects deeper layers of tissue or occurs in areas where it is important to preserve both appearance and function, such as the face. In these situations, techniques like local or regional flaps are used. A flap is a section of skin and tissue that is moved from a nearby area to cover a wound, while still attached to its own blood supply. This allows for healthy tissue to support healing in places where simple closure or a skin graft would not be suitable.
Forehead flaps are commonly used for repairing defects on the nose. A portion of skin from the forehead is shaped and rotated down to cover the wound while staying connected to its blood vessels. This type of flap offers durable coverage and a close skin match for the nose, which is particularly important in central facial reconstruction. Forehead flap procedures are usually done in stages, with time allowed between steps to support proper healing.
Nasolabial flaps are based on the natural skin folds that run from the side of the nose to the corner of the mouth. These flaps are commonly used to reconstruct areas such as the lower nose, upper lip, or cheek. The colour, texture, and thickness of this tissue are similar to the nearby skin, which helps it blend in with the surrounding area. This method is often used for small to medium defects where nearby skin can be repositioned to close the wound effectively.
